Much like Ted, Magic Mike is a movie that absolutely doesn't warrant a sequel, but because of its tremendous and unexpected financial success (grossing $167 million against a mere $7 million budget), a sequel was near enough guaranteed. The first movie ended with Mike (Channing Tatum) appearing to leave his life of stripping behind, while newbie Adam (Alex Pettyfer) appeared to fill his role and keep dancing with Dallas (Matthew McConaughey): it didn't really seem like a set-up for part two, right? Still, money talks, and though director Steven Soderbergh won't be helming this time, he will be assisting new director Greg Jacobs (who worked as first assistant director on the original movie), working as cinematographer, camera operator and film editor, ensuring the movie will still have his distinctive stamp on it. Alongside Matthew McConaughey, Tatum is confirmed to be returning (presumably his custom furniture business didn't work out?), and is also co-writing the movie with the original movie's writer, Reid Carolin. It might seem completely pointless and excessive, but with so much returning talent, it's hard not to believe that the movie just might work, and it'll certainly make money. Predicted Rotten Tomatoes Score: 61%
16. Minions (July 10)
Easily the most entertaining aspect of the Despicable Me movies to date has been the minions, Gru's (Steve Carell) yellow, pellet-like cronies who help him (or at least try to) in his numerous schemes. Though the idea of a spin-off revolving around sidekick characters from a hit franchise reeks of a money-grabbing spin-off, the premise does admittedly sound pretty hilarious: after foiling the plans of a T. Rex, Genghis Khan, and Dracula, the minions arrive at a villain convention in the 1960s to attract the attention of Scarlet Overkill (Sandra Bullock), whose quest it is to become the world's first female supervillain. With Despicable Me 1 & 2 director Pierre Coffin returning for Minions, it's clear that the movie isn't being palmed off for a quick buck, and given the immense popularity of these goofy creatures, it's a safe bet that the movie will be a colossal success. The plot suggests it's self-aware enough to be an amusing send-up of villain tropes, so despite a little hesitation, there's every chance this movie will work, even if the minions' lack of language presents a sure narrative challenge. Predicted Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
